The development of the industrial sector in Seychelles forms part of the government strategies to broaden its economic base and make this sector a pillar of the economy. Since 1990’s the government has reviewed and intensified its industrialisation programme for more private sector participation.

To preserve the country fragile and pristine environment, the government is encouraging the development of light and non-polluting industries based on import substitution, export, job creation as well as where the Seychelles has a competitive advantage.

Investments in the industries sector benefit from several concessions.

Contribution of the Sector

The Seychelles economy is dominated by a few large industries, namely Indian Ocean Tuna Canning Factory, Seychelles Breweries Ltd and STC, plus a host of small and medium enterprises producing a variety of goods and services for the local market and for export. The industrial sector accounts for 18% of GDP, employs roughly 20% of the domestic workforce and generates around 94% of revenues from Domestic export. Manufacturing is responsible for 16% of GDP. This is due in part to the outstanding performance of the Indian Ocean Tuna –a joint venture between H. J. Heinz and Seychelles Government, which is generating 90% of foreign exchange gained from Domestic export. Apart from manufacturing, other economic activities that have also had an important role to play in helping the economy become more broadly based are in assembling, repairs and maintenance, industrial related services, processing, and craft.

Broad Policy Guidelines

The agency responsible for for the Industry portfolio shall encourage industrial ventures that:

1. create employment
2. encourage the production of import substitution
3. support industrial ventures where Seychelles has a competitive advantage
4. encourage the transfer of technology
5. further increase the inflow of foreign exchange in the country